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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Lake View East

Mexican date spots

Made for those who want the casual energy of a Mexican restaurant for their date nights.

Based on 653 Opinions
+650
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Updated April 2026
01
Taqueria Tejupilco image 1
Taqueria Tejupilco image 2
Taqueria Tejupilco image 3
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Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy space with only a few tables creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels casual and authentic, with a chill, pleasant vibe. Known for authentic Mexican food and affordable prices, it draws those seeking fresh, flavorful tacos in a hole-in-the-wall environment.

Authentic Mexican food shines with fresh guacamole, crispy chips, and well-seasoned tacos. Affordable prices and a small, casual setting highlight the genuine flavors and balanced vegetarian options.

Atmosphere suits spending time with a partner or family. Dishes like papas con chorizo and chicken please both Mexican and non-Mexican tastes.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best."

"The food here is delicious; I'd lick my fingers."

"The tacos here are authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

The al pastor burrito costs only $10.

2

They offer different sizes of burritos, including a 'junior' size.

3

The prices at Taqueria Tejupilco are very affordable.

02
Matisse Tavern & Grill image 1

Gastropub offers cozy atmosphere with heated outdoor patio open late into fall. Close seating creates an intimate vibe, complemented by extraordinary craft cocktails and a brilliant patio space. Music and warm lighting enhance the inviting energy throughout.

Shrimp tacos stand out with a phenomenal taste. Pork wontons and quesadillas also get strong recommendations.

Cozy setting suits first dates and casual drinks. Bartenders like Viktor S add a kind, personal touch.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the rosemary chicken."

"You have to try the burgers; they're incredible."

"The shrimp tacos here are phenomenal and perfectly crispy."

Good to know

1

The kitchen stays open late until around 1:00 or 1:30 a.m.

2

Happy hour offers 50% off appetizers on Sunday and Monday nights.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

03
Amici-Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy space with a warm and welcoming atmosphere creates a homey vibe. Clean and unassuming interior hosts a friendly, family-owned environment. Energy feels heartfelt and calming, suitable for casual dining or to-go bites.

Birria arancini come with a rich sauce and pair well with the mole dip. Dishes like jerk chicken and quesadillas add variety to the Mexican offerings.

Casual meals fit well for couples, with a relaxed vibe and reasonable prices. Italian arancini stands out as a favorite dish, and the husband and wife team adds a charming touch.

People are saying

"These Arancini have phenomenal, innovative flavors from around the world."

"The arancini here are flavorful and delicious date spots."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays, they do a dine-in special that offers great value.

2

A full-size arancini costs $8 and comes with a side.

3

You can get five smaller arancini with two sides for $20 and mix and match.

04
Esencia Urban Kitchen image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Small, cozy breakfast spot with tight seating and a slow-paced, neighborhood vibe. Outdoor patio offers extra space and fresh air. Atmosphere feels charming and relaxed, often filling up by lunchtime.

Chilaquiles verdes stand out with their crispy texture and spicy kick, costing about $25. Breakfast and lunch tacos, especially the breakfast tacos and Taco Papas conrajas, offer satisfying and flavorful options.

Pancakes stand out as a sweet treat for couples. The spot holds a nostalgic vibe for long-term relationships.

People are saying

"The coffee here has a hint of cinnamon, which is welcoming."

"I found the breakfast here to be pretty good."

"The breakfast tacos here are a must-try for any date spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait for a table on weekends.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, which can lead to longer wait times.

3

Parking on the street can be difficult; consider public transport.

05
Taco Max Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cozy, friendly atmosphere and a bar offering a wide range of margarita flavors. The place draws a lively crowd and features authentic dishes like fish tacos and carne asada with generous portions. Music complements the vibe, creating an inviting and energetic setting.

Steak and al pastor tacos stand out with bold flavors and great seasoning. Burritos come packed with flavor and are very filling, while shrimp and chorizo tacos add variety. Rice, refried beans, and horchata complement the authentic Mexican food experience.

Chorizo and steak tacos stand out as a favorite, with the burrito and enchiladas also earning strong praise. Authentic Mexican flavors appeal to those familiar with the cuisine.

People are saying

"The margaritas here are well-balanced and decently spicy."

"I found the steak burrito to be the best Mexican food."

"I found the tacos, especially the al pastor, to be the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Currently, the restaurant is BYOB while waiting for their liquor license.

3

They do not serve margaritas yet due to the pending liquor license.

06
GoodTimes Brewery + Kitchen image 1

Massive bar and large open space with oak detailing create an inviting setting. Atmosphere feels warm and friendly with brewing equipment visible, adding to the vibe. Multiple TVs and games make it a chill spot for groups and events.

Shrimp and Baja tacos stand out with delicious, tasty flavors. The tacos pair well with the excellent beers offered.

Quiet atmosphere suits early arrivals. Menu features steak tacos and brewer beet salad. Drinks include premium cocktails and strawberry daiquiris.

People are saying

"The German and Czech style beers here are some of the best I've had."

"The food here is delicious and always hot."

"The Mexican food here is served with such lovely and friendly service."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

3

On Mondays, the BYO pizza is half off.

07
Cesar's Killer Margaritas - Broadway image 1

Mexican restaurant offers lively atmosphere with plenty of indoor seating and a shaded outdoor patio. The space features a unique interior layout with multiple sections and views overlooking Broadway. Music tends to be loud, creating a noisy environment that energizes the crowd.

Birria torta and tacos stand out on the menu with authentic flavors. The margaritas come in many options, are strong, and pair well with the food.

Strong focus on killer margaritas and friendly service makes it a solid choice for date nights. Shared dishes like the Queso Birria Torta and chicken flauta dinner add to the relaxed, enjoyable vibe.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is great, especially the chicken birria."

"Our server Sarah made our dinner so much fun."

"The service here is amazing, especially from Pacheco."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features one flavor of margarita at half price.

2

Miss Foozie bingo event occurs the first Thursday of every month.

3

A 3% surcharge applies for credit card payments.

08
El Mariachi Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with folk-art walls and a cozy patio creates an intimate, authentic Mexican cantina vibe. Dim lighting and lively decor set a charming atmosphere suited for dates or casual hangouts. Margaritas stand out as a popular drink choice here.

Mole sopes and chicken enchiladas stand out with rich flavors. Warm, homemade chips and guacamole complement fresh salsas, beans, and rice. The steak burrito and torta also offer solid options.

Dim lighting and a super cute interior create a cozy vibe for dates. The menu includes Torta and Margaritas, adding to the relaxed, intimate feel.

People are saying

"I thought the food tasted homemade and was amazing."

"I found the Mexican food here to be amazing."

"The service here is amazing, full of heart and genuine."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and seating is limited, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect wait times during busy periods due to the restaurant's popularity.

3

Prices are on the higher side for Mexican food in the area.

09
Las Maรฑanitas Restaurant image 1

Outdoor seating offers chill patio vibes with Latin music at a comfortable volume and candlelit ambiance for a casual, calm atmosphere. Inside feels snug and dimly lit, with an authentic, family-run aesthetic reflecting a Hispanic neighborhood. Margaritas stand out as freshly squeezed and expertly mixed, often considered the best in the city.

Carne Asada stands out as a delicious meat option, paired well with juicy chicken mole enchiladas and a unique salsa verde. The margaritas come in generous pitchers with a strong kick, complementing flavorful burritos and incredible tacos.

People are saying

"The Mexican Food here has incredibly strong margaritas."

"These enchiladas are seasoned, juicy, and you can't stop snacking on them."

"This is a great spot for a date night adventure."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $23 for a burrito, which is higher than average.

2

Extra charges apply for salsa, which may surprise larger parties.

3

Weekly specials are offered, featuring innovative dishes.

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Lake View East, Chicago

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